Tension surrounding Southern Charm resurfaced this week after Summer House star Ciara Miller publicly defended Venita Aspen, the only Black cast member currently on the series, who viewers and commentators say has repeatedly been marginalized, isolated, and targeted by fellow castmates.
The latest debate was sparked by a TikTok suggesting that Craig Conover may have attempted to edge Aspen out of the show after she supported his ex-girlfriend, Paige DeSorbo.
@joshtherhonystan how are you feeling about venita so far this season?? #venitaaspen #southerncharm #salleycarson #craigconover #austenkroll #sheprose #madisonlecroy #mollyoconnell #rodrigoreyes #bravotv #realitytv #andycohen #greenscreen ♬ original sound – Josh the RHONY Stan
The renewed scrutiny began when TikTok creator Josh the RHONY Stan examined comments Conover made during a recent Watch What Happens Live appearance. Josh argued that Conover’s remarks, which implied he no longer wished to associate with Aspen, could easily be interpreted as an attempt to sideline her within the cast.
Josh noted that while Conover may still resent Aspen for taking DeSorbo’s side during their breakup, the two were never close, adding that Aspen has long faced an uphill battle on a show where she is the sole Black woman navigating a predominantly white Charleston ensemble.
“I try to give grace to the women on this network since most of the audience doesn’t,” Josh said in the video. “I’m also always going to give grace to a Black woman who’s trying to succeed on a show that has the gender and racial dynamics of a 1950s sitcom.”
After the video circulated, Ciara Miller entered the conversation, echoing many of the concerns raised by fans and creators.
“Imagine being the only black girl on a predominantly white cast in the SOUTH,” Ciara wrote. “No one ever sees Venita’s side. And her cast only expects her to be submissive to their opinions and limelight.”
Ciara further alleged that when a main cast member refuses to film with another, it’s widely understood as an effort to force that person out of the show. “So yes,” she added, “your entire analysis of the situation is correct.”
